For DIY car enthusiasts seeking a professional-grade diagnostic tool without the hefty price tag and complexity of full dealer subscriptions, the question often arises: what’s the Best Dealer Level Scan Tool available? Having personally used the Autel MS906TS for over four years, primarily on European vehicles, I can offer some insights into its capabilities and whether it lives up to the “dealer level” expectation for a DIY user.
Initially, when I was in the market for a robust scan tool, my research led me to the Autel MS906TS. It positioned itself as a step above basic OBD2 scanners, offering advanced diagnostics, special functions, and bi-directional controls that are typically found in dealer-level equipment. Crucially, it seemed to offer almost everything a DIY mechanic would need, stopping just short of module coding – a feature that often requires manufacturer subscriptions and deeper technical knowledge. This balance was perfect for me, as I wanted a tool capable of handling complex diagnostics on my European cars (BMW, Mercedes, and Range Rover) without venturing into professional-level coding.
My investment in the Autel MS906TS, around $1300 at the time, has proven worthwhile. While the initial cost might seem significant compared to basic scanners, the capabilities it unlocks are substantial, especially when working on modern, complex vehicles. For anyone considering this tool today, the used market might offer even more attractive price points.
In my experience, the MS906TS has consistently delivered on its promise for various diagnostic tasks. On Mercedes vehicles, it has been invaluable for tackling issues related to the air suspension system, NOx sensors, DEF heaters, and a range of other general maintenance and troubleshooting tasks. For BMWs, its primary use has been for routine maintenance resets and brake work, tasks that often require more than just a generic OBD2 scanner. With the Range Rover, the tool has been instrumental in diagnosing DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) problems, performing throttle body calibrations, and activating solenoids to pinpoint emissions-related fault codes.
Across all these makes, the live data streaming and graphing functions have been indispensable. Being able to see real-time sensor readings and visualize data trends has significantly simplified the process of identifying and understanding underlying issues. This feature alone elevates the MS906TS beyond basic code readers and closer to true dealer-level diagnostic capability.
However, it’s important to have realistic expectations. While the Autel MS906TS boasts “dealer level” functionality in many respects, it’s not without its limitations. The most notable is the absence of module coding capabilities, which, for certain advanced repairs or modifications, might be necessary. This limitation, however, is arguably a strategic design choice by Autel, targeting the DIY and independent mechanic market who may not require or want to pay for manufacturer subscriptions.
Another aspect to consider is the cost of updates. The MS906TS typically comes with a period of free updates (in my case, two years). After this period, updates are available but come at a significant cost, often ranging from half to two-thirds of the initial tool price. For DIY users who primarily work on older vehicles, this update cost might be a deterrent, but for those working on newer models, keeping the tool updated is crucial for accessing the latest vehicle coverage and diagnostic protocols.
One recurring frustration I’ve encountered, and it seems to be a common experience with advanced scan tools, is the lack of comprehensive instructions. Navigating the tool across different manufacturers can feel like a trial-and-error process. Each car manufacturer implements diagnostic protocols and menu structures differently, and the tool interface, while generally intuitive, requires some exploration to master for each brand. Initially, I attributed this to Autel’s design, but I’ve come to realize that this complexity is inherent to the automotive industry itself, with each manufacturer having its own unique diagnostic ecosystem.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Autel MS906TS has proven to be a reliable and robust tool. Its hardware has held up well over years of use, the battery life remains excellent, and its processing speed is still as responsive as when it was new. For DIY enthusiasts looking for a “best dealer level scan tool” that bridges the gap between basic scanners and expensive professional equipment, the Autel MS906TS is certainly a strong contender, particularly for European car owners. It offers a significant step up in diagnostic capabilities, empowering DIYers to tackle more complex automotive issues at home.
